To approve the strategic purchase of a property in the Ross East ward within a

defined budget and to authorise officers, following appropriate consultation and due

diligence, to proceed with the acquisition.

That:

a) The Cabinet Member agrees to the purchase of a freehold property as set out in

appendix A and subject to completion of all the due diligence process and the Director

of Resources and Assurance being satisfied that the purchase provides value for money;

b) A budget of up to £1,120,000 is agreed to complete the purchase, all other associated fees and refurbishment; and

c) The Corporate Director, Economy & Environment, following consultation with the

Cabinet Member Commissioning, Procurement and Assets, be authorised to take all

operational decisions to complete the purchase and undertake subsequent improvement works.

Not to proceed with the purchase. The option is not recommended as the council has a number of statutory duties to meet in relation to the accommodation of vulnerable groups such as homelessness, people with learning disabilities and children that the council is responsible for looking after as a Corporate parent.